Dr. T. Venugopal is the Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering of KGiSL Institute of Technology. He received his B.E., in Mechanical Engineering from Bharathiar University and his Master’s in Engineering in CAD/CAM from Anna University. Thereafter, he completed his PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Anna University. He has about 16 years of teaching experience and his areas of interest include Industrial Robotics, Machine Design, the theory of Machines and Intelligent Manufacturing Systems. Dr. Venugopal has authored more than ten research papers in refereed International Journals and conferences. He has organized International and national conferences, symposiums, and many workshops. Moreover, he is a life member of ISTE and the Indian Society for Non-Destructive Testing (ISNT).

KGiSL Institute of Technology

What are the benefits of pursuing this course at your college? 

We provide 100% assistance in academics and career opportunities, guiding students right from the start to explore their areas of interest. Our entrepreneurship cell fosters students keen on entrepreneurship, while our career development cell assists in preparing for various job prospects. We also guide students towards higher education options, conducting GATE preparation workshops and planning to incorporate GATE courses directly into the curriculum. This holistic approach ensures our students are not only academically strong but also well-prepared for diverse career pathways and higher studies. 

How do you tend to build an industry connect with your programs? 

Expert lectures by industry professionals are conducted each semester, offering insights into the latest trends and practises. Additionally, we organise a minimum of two industrial visits for every student, tailoring the experience to their respective departments. These visits provide a hands-on understanding of industry operations, and students compile detailed reports on projects and assignments they observe. This approach ensures our students graduate not only with theoretical knowledge but also a practical understanding of how the industry functions, enhancing their employability and readiness for real-world challenges.

How did you train your faculty to deliver this program to the students? 

We organise diverse Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) and orientation sessions tailored to various subjects. Experts from respective domains contribute valuable insights to enhance faculty competence. Our faculty members also actively engage in conducting lectures, interacting with experts, and recording videos at IIT's Virtual Lab, ensuring quality content dissemination. Live experiments are made accessible, enabling real-time doubt resolution for both faculty and students. This multifaceted approach guarantees that our faculty is equipped with the latest teaching methodologies, enriching the learning experience for our students.

When you joined this college, what was your vision for it and how are you trying to achieve the same?

My vision was to transform it into a hub that produces not just skilled engineers, but also future leaders and successful entrepreneurs. To achieve this, I've focused on an all-encompassing approach. We've revamped the curriculum to make it more industry-relevant, introduced expert-led workshops and seminars, initiated industry-academia collaborations, and emphasised experiential learning through projects and internships. Additionally, promoting soft skills and leadership qualities is a priority. By nurturing a holistic growth environment, we are nurturing individuals who are not just job-ready, but also possess the qualities to excel as industry leaders and innovators.

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Which extracurricular activities are organized in college to enhance the skills of students? 

We believe in enhancing students' skills beyond academics through a range of extracurricular activities. Our college regularly organises professional visits to industries, which provide practical insights into real-world operations. Seminars and webinars hosted by industry experts expose students to the latest trends and developments. Workshops, covering various technical and soft skills, help participants hone their practical knowledge and communication abilities. By offering these diverse activities, we strive to develop well-rounded individuals who are not only academically adept but also possess the necessary skills to excel in their careers and contribute positively to society.

What is your philosophy of leadership? 

My leadership philosophy revolves around imparting my experiences to the students. I emphasize solution-oriented thinking over fixating on challenges. Challenges are inevitable, but our perspective and approach towards them can significantly impact our success. I believe in fostering a growth mindset and encouraging students to view obstacles as opportunities for learning and improvement. By guiding them to focus on solutions, I aim to instil a sense of resilience and adaptability that will serve them well both in their academic journey and in their future careers. 

How do you prepare your students to cope up with this competitive world? 

In preparing our students to thrive in a competitive world, we adopt a holistic approach. We motivate them to believe in their unique strengths rather than compare themselves with others. We emphasise continuous skill enhancement, urging them to stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies. Additionally, we nurture their problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills through practical projects and case studies. By fostering self-confidence, adaptability, and a growth mindset, we ensure our students are not just academically sound but also well-equipped to excel in the ever-evolving professional landscape.